I first saw this story on Sunday, a day I was planning on enjoying and it weighed heavy on my soul. In general, with our business Dulse & Rugosa I try to focus on the positive. I believe little steps make a difference. I know we are all flawed- that we are human. However at some point we just have to say enough!

A young sperm whale washed up on a Spanish beach. He was a teenager with his whole life ahead of him. The average age for a sperm whale is 70 years. He suffered from gastric shock because he had consumed 64 pounds of plastic. Let that sink in for just a minute- 64 pounds of plastic.

An autopsy was conducted by Murcia’s El Valle Wildlife Rescue Centre, which documented the contents of the whales' stomach. Inside were the usual suspects including plastic bags, ropes, nets and even a plastic bucket. I bet that whale also ingested a large quantity of tiny pieces of plastic- because that's what plastic does- breaks down into littler and littler bits.

I walk the beach almost everyday with my dog. And every day I pick up the usual suspects including lots and lots of convenience food containers. All those take away coffee cup, plastic bottle filled with water, yummy cool drink complete with matching straw are slowly and agonizing killing off all living creatures- including eventually humans.

What can we do? First, each and every month make a pledge to give up one type of plastic. Water bottles and shopping bags are an easy start. Next, get involved with our elected officials. Vote for candidates who respect and honor the environment. Finally, start picking up trash. Picking up all the garbage we leave behind is the best antidote to this sad death of a young whale.